Darold A. Dodge, 91, Manhattan, KS passed away Wednesday, December 17, 2008 in the Mercy Regional Health Center, Manhattan.

He was born April 5, 1917, on a farm in Lane County, KS, the son of Gilbert Ray Dodge and Nora Thon Dodge.  The family moved to Dighton and Mr. Dodge graduated from the Dighton High School in 1935.  In 1941, he graduated from Kansas State University with a degree in Vocational Agriculture.

He was united in marriage to Zelma Finn on March 22, 1943 at Kansas City, KS.  She survives of the home.

Mr. Dodge was a veteran of World War II, serving with the U.S. Army.  During the war, he was stationed briefly in North Africa and nearly two years in upper Assam, India.  It was during this time that he noticed how both of the areas had destroyed their soil.  After the war, he returned to Kansas State University and received his Masters Degree in Soils Science.  Upon graduation, he went to work for the Soil Conservation Service as a Soils Scientist.  His experience and expertise in the field were often used by educators to teach students about the value of soil and how to care for it.

Mr. and Mrs. Dodge retired to Manhattan in 1995 and have been residents of Meadowlark Hills for more than six years.  He was a member of the St. Thomas More Catholic Church, the Soil Conservation Society of America, and the Pearce-Keller American Legion Post No. 17 and the Lee Pierson V.F.W. Post No. 1786, both of Manhattan.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Dodge is survived by six daughters, Rae Marie Crisel, and her husband, John, Zionsville, ID, Alvena Spanenberg, and her husband, Kenneth, Great Bend, KS, Cecilia Smith, and her husband, Floyd, Newman, GA, Beth Warren, and her husband, Jimmy, Manhattan, Clare Rehme, and her husband, Erwin, Longmont, CO and Eileen Rinke, and her husband, Mark, Lakeville, MN;  ten grandsons; five granddaughters; and three great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and four brothers, Theodore (Ted), Gilbert, Hale and Kent Dodge.

Mr. Dodge requested cremation with inurnment at a later date in the Sunrise Cemetery, Manhattan.  A Memorial Mass will be held at the St. Thomas More Catholic Church, Manhattan at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, December 20, 2008.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Good Samaritan Fund of Meadowlark Hills and left in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, 1317 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan, KS  66502.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Ada L. Schalles, 101, Manhattan, KS passed away Thursday, December 11, 2008 in the Meadowlark Hills/Ptacek House, Manhattan.

She was born May 2, 1907 at Saguache, CO, the daughter of William Jacob Werner and Lena May Schiller Werner.  She grew up in Saguache, where she attended the local schools and was a 1925 graduate of the Saguache High School and a 1927 graduate of the Western State College, Gunnison, CO with a teaching certificate.

She was united in marriage to Philip John Schalles on June 9, 1929 at Salida, CO.  He preceded her in death in 1984.

Mrs. Schalles lived in the Ignacio and Tiffany areas of Colorado for over 40 years.  She was a homemaker and teacher and was active as a 4-H leader in the Tiffany & Allison area for many years.  Her interests included gardening, ceramics and crocheting.  Memberships included the Community Presbyterian Church of Allison, Home Demonstration Unit, Grange and was a lifetime member of the Eastern Star.  She had been a Manhattan resident since 2004.

In addition to her husband, Mrs. Schalles was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, William Werner; and three sisters, Etta Michaud, Margie Efaw and Florence Ickes.

Survivors include three sons, John Schalles, and his wife, Irma, Ashcroft, B.C., Canada, Robert Schalles, and his wife, Daisy, Manhattan, KS and Harold Schalles, and his wife, Nancy, Albany, OR; a sister, Ruth E. Sewell, Del Norte, CO; 10 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; and two great great grandchildren.

Cremation is planned.  Memorial services will be at 10:30 a.m., Friday, December 19, 2008 in the Meadowlark Hills Community Room.  Inurnment will be held at a later date in the Hillside Cemetery, Saguache, CO.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Good Samaritan Fund of Meadowlark Hills and sent in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, 1317 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan, KS.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Howard V. Jones, Jr., 87, Manhattan, KS passed away Thursday, December 11, 2008 in the Mercy Regional Health Center, Manhattan.

He was born August 13, 1921 in Duluth, MN, the son of Howard V. Jones, Sr. and Eva Stockwell Jones.  He spent his earlier years in Duluth before moving with his family to Wisconsin at the age of 12.  He attended Whitworth College, Spokane, WA, where he received his BA degree in Education and his MA degree in Sociology.  He had taken pre-doctorate studies at the University of Washington, Seattle, WA.
He was a veteran of World War II, serving with the U.S. Army in the European Theatre.

He was united in marriage to Eugenia M. Arbogast on February 1, 1942 at Big Falls, MN.  She survives of the home.

Mr. Jones lived in the Sacramento, CA area for many years, where he taught at the Sacramento City Community College.  He retired in 1987 and had been a Manhattan resident since 2006.  He was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Sacramento and the V.F.W. Post, Galt, CA.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Phillip Charles Jones in 2006; and a grandson, Robert Ruth.

In addition to his wife, Eugenia, Mr. Jones is survived by a son, David V. Jones, and his wife, Kathy, Manhattan; a daughter, Diana Jean Geiger, and her husband George, Huron, SD; six grandchildren, Ken Jones, Dale Jones, Barbara Jones, Erika Johnston, Shannon Nibur and Vincent Jones; 10 great grandchildren, Morgan Smith, Zachary Smith, Jessica Smith, Kelsey Jones, Shelbie Jones, Andrea Jones, Kyle Jones, Jena Kluver, Kaitlyn Nibur, and Tori Johnston; and four great great grandchildren, Kendal, Kirston and Kylie Kluver and Samantha Huff.

Cremation is planned.  Memorial services will be held on Sunday, December 14, 2008 at the home of his son, David Jones, Manhattan.  Inurnment services will be at a later date.

Memorial contributions can be made to Feed The Children and sent in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, 1317 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan, KS  66502.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Clarence G. Royer, 67, Ogden, KS passed away Monday, December 8, 2008 at his home.

He was born February 21, 1941 in Iowa, the son of Paul Royer and Myrtle Smith Royer.  In 1946, at the age of 5, he moved with his family to Ogden where he grew up and attended the local grade school.  He was a 1959 graduate of the Manhattan High School and had been a lifelong resident of the Ogden and Manhattan area.

Mr. Royer spent 13 years in the U.S. military, serving four years in the U.S. Navy and nine years with the U.S. Army.  He was a member of the American Legion Post and the V.F.W. Post, both of Ogden.

He is survived by two brothers, Walter Royer, Manhattan and Samuel Royer, Ogden; a sister, Elizabeth Ann Woodland, Orlando, FL; and several nephews and nieces.

Preceding him in death was his parents; and three brothers, Major Randall Royer, Darrell Royer and infant, Carl Royer.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, December 13, 2008 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan with the Rev. Tom Albright officiating.  Burial will follow in the Ogden City Cemetery, Ogden, KS.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Clarence Royer Memorial Fund and left in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

The family of Mr. Royer will receive friends from 7 until 8 p.m., Friday at the funeral home.

Laraine Jean (White) Cullers, 61, Manhattan, KS passed away Thursday, December 4, 2008 in the Mercy Regional Health Center, Manhattan.

She was born November 4, 1947 at Lexington, NE, the daughter of Vern White and Wilda Applegate White.  She grew up in Cozad, NE, where she attended the local schools and was a 1965 graduate of the Cozad High School.

She was united in marriage to Vern Cullers on August 21, 1982 at Lexington, NE.  He survives of the home.

Mrs. Cullers worked in the finance and administrative support services at Pawnee Mental Health Services, Manhattan and retired in March 2004.  She had been a Manhattan resident since August 1988.

In addition to her husband, Laraine is survived by a son, SSG Todd W. Laird, stationed at Whidbey NAS, Oak Harbor, WA; daughter, Ramona Laird, Beatrice, NE; parents, Vern and Wilda White, Cozad, NE; sister, Verla Ringenberg, and her husband, Jay, Lincoln, NE; step children, Julie Cullers, Columbus, MO, David Cullers of Cozad, NE and Audra Williams, Lexington, NE; granddaughters, Desirae Laird, West Richland, WA and Shelby Laird, Hubbal, NE; and step grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m., Monday, December 8, 2008 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan with Vicar King Crawford officiating.  Burial will be in the Sunrise Cemetery, Manhattan.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Mosaic in Beatrice House, Beatrice, NE and left in care of the funeral home.

The family of Mrs. Cullers will receive friends from 7 until 8:30 p.m., Sunday at the funeral home.

She was born April 7, 1938 at Pommern, Germany, the daughter of Ernest Schulz and Irmgard Pappe Schulz.  She grew up in Hannover, Germany, attended the local schools, and briefly studied art at the university.

In 1961, Hannelore and Paul Michaelis were united in marriage in Salt Lake City, UT.  During the 20 years that they were married, they traveled and resided in both the United States and Europe.

Mrs. Michaelis later used her artistic creativity as she worked in retail. She lived in Eureka Springs, AR before moving back to Manhattan in 2003.  Hannelore was a member of the Seven Dolors Catholic Church, an active member of the church choir, and fulfilled a special calling for prison ministry.  She loved to travel, always returning to the Island of Brac in Croatia.

Survivors include two daughters, Bettina Boller, and her husband, Tom, Manhattan and Christine Michaelis, Bellingham, WA; a brother, Klaus Schultz, Hannover, Germany; and grandchildren, Elizabeth Buckley, Catherine Buckley, Michael Boller and Taryn Boller.

Cremation is planned.  Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, November 25, 2008 in the Seven Dolors Catholic Church, Manhattan with Father Joseph Popelka as celebrant.  Inurnment will be at a later date.

A Rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m., Monday, November 24, 2008 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan with a family visitation to follow at 8:00 p.m.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Manhattan Catholic Schools or the Manhattan Arts Center and left in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Violet M. Sedlacek, 93, Manhattan, KS passed away Friday, November 21, 2008 in the Meadowlark Hills/Collins House, Manhattan.

She was born January 23, 1915 at Frankfort, KS, the daughter of Ike Ellsworth Dover and Ida Irene Schlegel Dover.  She attended the local schools and was a 1932 graduate of the Cleburne High School.

She was a homemaker and also employed by the Singer Company and Weisner’s Sew Unique in Manhattan for 25 years.

On December 1, 1932 in Marysville, KS she was married to Floyd “Bud” Herrmann.  They farmed in Washington County, KS area for 25 years, before moving to Manhattan in 1957.  He preceded her in death on May 4, 1978.  On March 31, 1988 she was married to Miles F. Sedlacek in Junction City, KS.  He preceded her in death on August 1, 1997.

Mrs. Sedlacek’s hobbies included sewing.  She also served as a 4-H leader in Washington County and was a member of the Rebecca Lodge and was past noble grand in Barnes.

In addition to her husbands, Mrs. Sedlacek was preceded in death by her parents; 4 sons, Jimmy Herrmann in 1937, Billy Herrmann in 1959, Richard Herrmann in 1965 and Larry Herrmann in 2002, a grandson, Todd Herrmann, and a daughter-in-law Thelda Herrmann.

Survivors include two grandsons, Kevin Herrmann and his wife, Julie, Meridian, Idaho, and Michael Herrmann, Omaha, NE; three great grandchildren; one great great granddaughter; two stepsons: Larry Sedlacek, CA and Randy Sedlacek, Kansas City; a brother, Jack Dover, Wamego, KS; two nieces, Lou Ann Roepke and her husband, Alvin; Waterville, KS, and Norma Herrmann, Marysville; a nephew, Gene Herrmann, Topeka, KS; and many friends.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, November 29, 2008 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan.  Burial will follow in Riverside Cemetery, Waterville, KS.  The family will receive friends from 7:00 until 8:00 p.m., Friday, November 28, 2008 at the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Terry C. Johnson, Center for Basic Cancer Research-KSU and sent in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, 1317 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan, KS  66502.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Henry “Hank” Edward Lige, Jr., age 54, died November 20, 2008 at KU Medical Center in Kansas City.

Born on November 6, 1954 in Montgomery, Alabama.  He was the son of Henry Edward Lige Sr and Pearlie Lee (Sankey) Lige.  He received Christ at an early age at Nazareth Catholic Mission.  Henry played football at Robert E. Lee High School in Montgomery, Alabama and went on to play at Kansas State University as a cornerback #45 for two years.  He worked for over thirty years as a contractual pipe fitter and was a member of the Plumbers and Pipe Fitters Union Local #165.  Henry liked to fish, golf and cook but most of all loved spending time with his children and grandchildren.

His survivors include:  his daughters, Aresha Nichole Lige of Manhattan, KS; Tamica (Clark Trawick) Lynn Lige of Manhattan, KS;  Mrs. Tracey (Takata) Lewis of Montgomery AL.  His son, Henry Edward Lige III of Manhattan, KS.  His siblings, Arvella Wilkins of Manhattan NY, Mrs. Henrietta Meyers of Bronx NY, Reginald Bray of Montgomery AL, Tyrone (Elizabeth) Bray of Lawton OK, Timothy (Patricia) Lige of Montgomery AL, Haywood (Regina) Lige of Manhattan NY, Rose Carolyn Lige of Montgomery AL. Six grandchildren are Ari, Ryder, Kelsey, Joshua, Jaquan, and Whitney.  Two great grandchildren, Kedrick Jr and Ja’ Meryn.  Several nieces and nephews.  His step-mother Mrs. Mattie Lige of Montgomery, AL.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Connie Lige and his grandson Kedrick Smith, Sr.

Funeral Services will be Saturday, November 29^th at 10:00 a.m. at Faith Evangelical Free Church, 1921 Barnes Rd., Manhattan, KS with Pastor Steve Ratliff officiating.  Burial will follow in the Sunrise Cemetery, Manhattan.

Visitation will be Friday evening from 7-8:30 p.m. in the Faith Evangelical Free Church.  Memorial contributions in the name of Henry E. Lige Jr. “Hank” may be left in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, 1317 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.  The memorial will be designated later by the family.

Karen J. Mall, 45, Manhattan, KS, passed away Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at the K.U. Medical Center, Kansas City, KS after a long illness.

She was born July 24, 1963 at Liberal, KS, the daughter of Erwin L. Brewer and Lila J. (Oblander) Brewer.  She grew up in Liberal, where she attended the local schools and was a 1981 graduate of Liberal High School.  Karen also attended Seward County Community College and received her BS degree from Cameron University, Lawton, OK.  She later attended Kansas State University, Manhattan, receiving a Masters Degree in Computer Science.

Karen was united in marriage to Scott Mall on September 24, 1994 at Manhattan.  He survives at the home, along with her 'girls', Maggie, Peg and Koko.

At the time of her death, Karen was a Systems Analyst for the Farm Bureau Financial Services, Manhattan and was a member of the Manhattan Pilot Club.  Other memberships included the First United Methodist Church, Liberal.  Karen enjoyed softball, quilting, and photography, was an avid supporter of KSU athletics and MHS Lady Indians basketball, and was a dedicated runner, as she completed the Chicago Marathon in 2000.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her mother, Lila J. Hagaman, Liberal; and a brother, Douglas R. Brewer, Liberal, and by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, stepbrothers and stepsisters.

Karen was preceded in death by her father, Erwin L. Brewer in 1974; and her stepfather, Jay Hagaman in 2007.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m., Friday, November 21, 2008 in the First United Methodist Church, Manhattan with the Rev. Kay Scarbrough officiating.  Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, November 22, 2008 in the Liberal City Cemetery, Liberal, KS.

Karen’s family will receive friends from 7:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m., Thursday, November 20, 2008 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Terry C. Johnson Center for Basic Cancer Research-KSU, to the SCCC Develop Foundation-Erwin L. Brewer Scholarship Fund, or to CaringBridge and sent in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, 1317 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan, KS  66502.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Lillian M. Post, 93, Manhattan, KS passed away Saturday, November 8, 2008 of natural causes at the Stoneybrook Retirement Community, Manhattan.

She was born December 25, 1914 the daughter of August Leadtka and Anna B. Chatham Leadtka.  She grew up in the farm community of Rock Creek, KS, north of Topeka and graduated from Rock Creek High School in 1934.  She married Harry E. Post on March 7, 1947.  They lived for ten years on a farm north of Valley Falls, KS and in Valley Falls for several years before moving to Manhattan in 1967.  Mr. Post preceded her in death.

She was primarily a homemaker but also did paper hanging and baby sitting.  She loved to sew and was active in sewing groups with the First United Methodist Church and the V.F.W. Post #1786 Auxiliary of which she was a life member.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and three brothers, Paul, Charley and Tony Leadtka and a brother-in-law, William O. Post.

She is survived by her daughter, Catherine A. Post of Manhattan; three sisters-in-law, Evelyn Leadtka of Topeka, Mary Sarver of Haysville, Jo Schulte of Newton; and many cousins, nephews and nieces.

Cremation is planned.  Memorial services will be at 1:00 p.m., Monday, November 24, 2008 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan with Rev. Nancy J Kollhoff officiating.  Inurnment will be later in the Valley Falls Cemetery, Valley Falls, KS.

Memorial contributions can be made to the V.F.W. National Home for Children or the donor’s choice and left in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, 1317 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan, KS  66502.  Online condolences and be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Verne G. Kuhn, 91, Manhattan, KS passed away Friday, November 14, 2008 in the St. Joseph Village, Manhattan.

He was born February 16, 1917 in Elizabeth, IL, the son of George E. Kuhn and Mayme D. (Koehn) Kuhn.  He was raised in the Elizabeth area where he attended a country grade school and graduated from the Elizabeth High School in 1936.

Following his high school graduation, Mr. Kuhn served with the U.S. Army for over 26 years, retiring as a Command Sergeant Major in 1963.  He served in France, Germany and Austria during World War II and also in Korea during the Korean Conflict.  Following his military retirement, he worked for the Federal Civil Service Administration at Ft. Riley, KS for 16 years, retiring on March 28, 1980.

Mr. Kuhn was a longtime member of the St. Thomas More Catholic Church and an honorary lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus Council No. 8488, Manhattan.  He was also a lifetime member of the National Association of Federal Retired Employees, the Pearce-Keller American Legion Post No. 17 and the Lee Pierson V.F.W. Post No. 1786, all of Manhattan.

On November 10, 1941, he was united in marriage to the former Helen Louise Gros at the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Flush, KS.  She survives at the home in Manhattan.  Also surviving are a son, Leland Kuhn, and his wife, Andrea, Kent Island, MD; a daughter, Sandra Kuhn, Kansas City, MO; brothers-in-law, Ivan Gros of Montana and Leo Hecht, Andale, KS; sisters-in-law, Charlotte Patzell, Manhattan and Gudula Gros, Andale, KS; and two grandchildren, Joseph Kuhn and Kimberly Kuhn.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Leland (Bill) Kuhn and Merlin (Marley) Kuhn.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 18, 2008 in the St. Thomas More Catholic Church.  Burial, with full military honors, will follow in the Sunrise Cemetery, Manhattan.

A Bible Vigil service will be at 7:30 p.m., Monday, November 17, 2008 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan.  The family will receive friends for an hour preceding the Vigil Service.  Memorial contributions can be made to Homecare & Hospice and left in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

R. Lorraine Rupe Jeffrey, 84, Manhattan, KS passed away Saturday, November 8, 2008 in the Mercy Regional Health Center, Manhattan.

She was born August 30, 1924 at Hammond, IN, the daughter of Ruby Seth Scurlock and Lucy McWilliams Scurlock.  She grew up in Exline, Iowa and was a 1941 graduate of the Exline High School.  She also attended the Centerville Junior College in Centerville, IA and later taught schools in Iowa for five years.

She was united in marriage to Donald R. Rupe on June 9, 1947 at Atchison, KS.  He preceded her in death on June 1, 2000.  She later married Wallace “Wally” G. Jeffrey on February 16, 2001 at Manhattan.  He survives of the home.

Mrs. Jeffrey lived in Chanute, KS, LaJunta, CO, Ottumwa, IA, Chadron, NE and Salina, KS before moving to Manhattan in 1974.  She was a homemaker and had worked as a secretary at the Manhattan SRS office.

She attended the University Christian Church, Manhattan and was a member of the Pearce-Keller American Legion Post No. 17 Auxiliary.

In addition to her first husband, Mrs. Jeffrey was preceded in death by a son, R. David Rupe on September 14. 1971; her parents; two brothers, Carl and Ray Scurlock; a brother-in-law, Byron Stearns; and three sisters-in-law, Lois Scurlock, Jo Scurlock and Betty Scurlock.

Survivors include her husband, Wally, of the home; two sons, Terry Rupe, and his wife, Mary Kathryn, Claflin, KS and Gary Rupe, and his wife, Teena, Guymon, OK; a step-son, Gerald Jeffrey, and his wife, Sharon, McPherson, KS; a step daughter, Dixie Coursen, Summerville, SC; two brothers, Gene Scurlock, Estera, FL and Paul Scurlock, San Antonio, TX; two sisters, Kathryn Erickson, and her husband, David, Russell, IA and Karen Luse, and her husband, Tom, Kilbourne, LA; five grandchildren, Justin Rupe, Matthew Rupe, and his wife, Erica, Jessica Rupe, Tara Rupe and Jared Rupe; five step-grandchildren; one great grandchild; several step great grandchildren; and numerous nephews and nieces.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, November 11, 2008 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan with the Rev. David Pape and the Rev. Steve Ratliff officiating.  The family will receive friends from 6 until 8 p.m., Monday at the funeral home.

Additional visitation and graveside services are pending and will be held in Ottumwa, IA.

Memorial contributions can be made to the University Christian Church or the 40 & 8 Nurses Training Scholarship Fund and left in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, 1317 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan, KS  66502.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Donna M. George, 47, Manhattan, KS passed away Sunday, November 2, 2008 in the Mercy Regional Health Center, Manhattan.

She was born August 24, 1961 at Killeen, TX, the daughter of Dennis J. George, Sr. and Victoria “Vicki” M. Sumbs George.  She spent her early years in Killeen and moved to Manhattan with her family in December 1974.  She attended the Manhattan Catholic Schools, the Lucky High School and was a 1979 graduate of the Manhattan High School.

She was the owner and operator of the Ace Liquor Store, Manhattan until her health forced her to sell the store in October 2007.  She was a member of the Seven Dolors Catholic Church, the Seven Dolors Catholic Women Circle No. 4 and spent many hours as a volunteer for the church.  She especially enjoyed working with the Manhattan Catholic School and the Youth Choir.

She was preceded in death by a brother, Dennis J. George, Jr. on July 31, 2005.

Survivors include a daughter, Amanda V. George, Manhattan; her parents, Dennis and Vicki George, Manhattan; two brothers, Dale R. George, and his wife, Brenda, Lathrop, MO and Douglas E. George, and his wife, Tina, San Antonio, TX; and two sisters, Deborah A. Price and Doreen M. Ray, and her husband, Charles, all of Manhattan; and her most beloved nieces and nephews.

Cremation is planned.  A Memorial Mass will be at 10:00 a.m., Friday, November 7, 2008 in the Seven Dolors Catholic Church with Father Joseph Popelka as celebrant.  Inurnment will follow in the St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery, east of Manhattan.

A Rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m., Thursday, November 6, 2008 at the Seven Dolors Catholic Church followed by a family visitation at 8:00 p.m.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Donna George Memorial Fund and left in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Merle L. Eyestone, 85, died Saturday, November 1, 2008 at Meadowlark Hills/Wroten House, Manhattan.  He was born November 6, 1922 at Lansing, KS, the son of Ernest Wilbur Eyestone and Eva Ann Linton Eyestone.

Mr. Eyestone’s professional career covered a period of 45 years working with the Kansas 4-H programs.  He served as Shawnee County 4-H club agent from 1947-1960.  Membership in the 30 4-H clubs reached nearly 900 from a 450 membership in 1946.  The Shawnee County 4-H band was invited to attend the National 4-H Congress in 1952 and 1957.  Livestock and poultry judging teams won seven state contests and two national contests.

He joined the Kansas 4-H Foundation staff in 1962 as the director of Rock Springs 4-H Center.  He was the director from 1962-1971 and then became the Foundation’s Executive Director until his retirement in 1987.  He was appointed to the Kansas 4-H Foundation as an advisory trustee after his retirement.  The Merle L. Eyestone Conference Center at Rock Springs was named in his honor in 1998 for his 40 years of service.

During those 40 years, the Kansas 4-H Foundation became the largest 4-H Foundation in the nation.  Presently, the Foundation’s assets include Rock Springs 4-H Center, the Clovia Scholarship House at Kansas State University, supply services and publishing the monthly, Kansas 4-H Journal.

He graduated from Lansing High School in 1940.  He received a B.S. degree in agricultural economics from Kansas State University in 1947, a M.S. and Ph.D. in 1961 and 1966 from the University of Wisconsin in adult education.  Mr. Eyestone served as president of the KSU Student Governing Association during the 1944-1946 college terms and was a member of Blue Key.  He was active in the Kansas Association of County 4-H Agents and during 1955, served as president of the National Association of 4-H Agents.  He co-authored a book, The History of 4-H Work in Kansas 1906-1993, which was published in 1993.  In 2003, he was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame in Washington, D.C.  He was one of 21 in that year’s class to be inducted.

Mr. Eyestone was married to Willa Deanne Mills on June 26, 1948 at Lansing, Kansas.  She preceded him in death in 2004.  Survivors include a daughter, Gail, Manhattan, Ks. and three sons, Keith, Manhattan, Ks; Daniel and his wife, Debbie, Great Bend, Ks; Richard and his wife, Jane, and their two daughters, Caitlin and Sydney, Junction City, Ks; a brother, Cecil  Eyestone, Manhattan, Ks. and many nieces and nephews.

He was a member of the Manhattan Rotary Club for 27 years; a member of the Manhattan First United Methodist Church, serving as a trustee of the church’s Foundation, a member of the Memorial committee and participated in the activities of the Methodist Men. 

Following retirement, he served as chairman of the fund drive for the expansion of the Manhattan Senior Center.  He was chairman of the leadership gifts fund-raising project for the $2 million east wing construction of the First United Methodist Church which was completed in 1999.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, November 6, 2008 in the First United Methodist Church, Manhattan with the Rev. Kay Scarbrough officiating.  Burial will follow in the Sunrise Cemetery, Manhattan.

The family of Mr. Eyestone will receive friends from 7 until 8:30 p.m., Wednesday at the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, 1317 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan, KS  66502.

Memorial donations may be made to the Kansas 4-H Foundation for the Eyestone Scholarship, or to the First United Methodist Church Foundation in Manhattan and left in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Ruth E. Clifton, 90, Manhattan, KS passed away Saturday, October 25, 2008 in the Mercy Regional Health Center, Manhattan.

She was born January 26, 1918 at Bonner Springs, KS, the daughter of Robert Perry Kindred and Mina Kern Kindred.  She attended the local schools and was a 1934 graduate of the Bonner Springs High School.  She later earned a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from Kansas State University in 1941 and 1951 respectively.

Following her undergraduate degree, she was employed in Kansas City, MO, by the Arthur Andersen and Co. accounting firm, by Hallmark Cards and later by Tran World Airlines (TWA).  In 1947, she moved to New York City to work for the International Division of TWA and later returned to Kansas State University to pursue her Master’s Degree.

On September 18, 1950 in Topeka, KS, she was married to John P. Clifton, Professor of Industrial Engineering at Kansas State University.  He preceded her in death on July 20, 1979.

Mrs. Clifton was employed for 26 years as an instructor and later research assistant in the Department of Economics at KSU.  She resigned in 1973.

Memberships included the Phi Kappa Phi Honorary Society, First United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women, University Social Club, Better Breathing Club, sponsored by the American Lung Association, a study club of friends and others.

In addition to her husband, Mrs. Clifton was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Norma Kindred; and a brother, Paul E. Kindred.

Survivors include a niece, Linda Hardman, Austin, TX; two nephews, James D. Kindred, Overland Park, KS and Paul Lee Kindred, Paola, KS; two stepsons, James D. Clifton, Walled Lake, MI and John T. Clifton, Oklahoma City, OK; step grandchildren; grand nieces and nephews; and many many friends.

It was Mrs. Clifton’s wishes to donate her body to the University of Kansas Medical Center for research purposes.  A memorial service will be at 1:30 p.m., Thursday, October 30, 2008 in the First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Kay Scarbrough officiating.  A reception, for family and friends, will be held after the memorial service in Fellowship Hall.  Inurnment will be held at a later date in the Sunrise Cemetery, Manhattan.

Memorial contributions can be made to the First United Methodist Church or the American Lung Association and sent in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, 1317 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan, KS  66502.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com. 

James R. Iverson, 66, Manhattan, KS passed away Sunday, October 12, 2008 in his home.

He was born June 20, 1942 at Clifton, KS, the son of Emery Louis Iverson and Laura Lyon Iverson.  He grew up in Clifton, where he attended the local schools and was a graduate of the Clifton High School.

Mr. Iverson spent over 21 years living in Lenexa, KS where he worked as a custodian for the Continental Can Company.  He had been a Manhattan resident since 2001.

Survivors include two sons, Jeffery R. Recette, and his wife, Nicole, Overland Park, KS and Christopher E. Iverson, and his wife, Karen, Shawnee, KS; his mother, Laura Iverson, Clifton; two brothers, Larry Iverson, Overland Park, KS and Eugene Iverson, St. Louis, MO; a sister, Linda Kantack, Clifton; one granddaughter, Aliyah Recette; and one step- grandson, Asa Abramson.

Graveside services will be at 10:30 a.m., Friday, October 17, 2008 in the I.O.O.F. Cemetery, Clifton, KS.  Burial will be in the I.O.O.F. Cemetery.

The family of Mr. Iverson will receive friends from 6 until 8 p.m., Thursday, October 16, 2008 at the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Steven R. Beck, 61, of Longmont, CO was born to Jeanne and Henry Beck in Manhattan, KS, January 26, 1947.  He passed away October 10, 2008 in Boulder County, CO, after a lengthy illness.  He grew up in Manhattan, KS, attended local schools and graduated from Manhattan High School in 1965 and Magna Cum Laude from Kansas State University in 1969 with a B.S. in Chemical Engineering. He was a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity and was active in ROTC, music and sports. He obtained his Ph. D. from University of Texas, Austin TX in 1972 working on encapsulation of enzymes in copolymer beads.  

              His professional career encompassed both academic and corporate positions.  He was on the Chemical Engineering faculty at Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, from 1977 to 1988, and served as chairman of that department before leaving academia in 1988.  He then began working as a pharmaceutical engineer at Syntex Pharmaceuticals, which later became Roche Colorado Corporation.  He finished his career at Roche as Director of Engineering after gaining additional experience at Bristol-Myers Squibb, Co. and DuPont Pharmaceuticals Co, New Brunswick, NJ and Deepwater, NJ respectively.  Throughout his career he published many articles in professional journals and participated in various research and manufacturing projects.  He was a member of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers and the American Chemical Society and held several honors and awards in science and engineering. He was a member of Lafayette Masonic Lodge #16, Manhattan, KS, and Manhattan Chapter No. 209, Order of the Eastern Star.

He was united in marriage to Candace Unruh, daughter of Chester and Ferne Unruh, in Manhattan, KS. In addition to the surviving wife, others include: Son, Jim Beck, Brooklyn, New York; Daughter, Stephanie Beck, Westminster, CO; Daughter and Son-in-Law, Sarah and Aaron Rodriguez, Longmont, CO; Mother, Jeanne Beck, Manhattan, KS; and many other relatives and friends. He enjoyed spending time with his family through normal daily life and special times like vacations, sporting events and recreational activities.

Funeral Services will be held at Darrell Howe Mortuary, 1701 W. South Boulder Rd., Lafayette, CO 80026, on Sunday October 12, 2008 at 2:00 pm. Visitation will precede at 1:00 pm.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, October 15, 2008 in the Sunrise Cemetery, Manhattan, KS with the Rev. R. C. “Cam” McConnell officiating.  In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Aplastic Anemia & MDS International Foundations at www.aamds.org or left in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Nina B. Gaume, 90, Manhattan, KS passed away Friday, October 10, 2008 in the Meadowlark Hills/Ptacek House, Manhattan.

She was born at home in Polo, MO on January 7, 1918, the daughter of William Henry Hayter and Pearl Yates Hayter.  She grew up in Polo and was a graduate of the Polo High School.  She worked as an assistant to a country doctor in Missouri until she was married to Robert E. Gaume on January 2, 1940 at Hamilton, MO.

Mrs. Gaume had been a Manhattan resident since 1950.  She was a member of the Seven Dolors Catholic Church, where she belonged to the Altar Society, serving as President at one time.  She was a member of a local Canasta card group for almost 40 years and was known for her wonderful cooking, especially homemade pies and her immaculate housekeeping.  She also subbed occasionally at the Manhattan School Lunchroom.  At the time of her death, Mrs. Gaume was a member of the St. Isidore Catholic Student Center and made many friends among the students.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert E. Gaume on June 10, 2007; a daughter, Janelle Elaine Gaume in February 1958; her parents; one brother, Clifford Hayter; and one sister, Faye Donna Thomas.

Survivors include a daughter, Virginia J. Joyce, Manhattan; two sons, Robert “Jerry” J. Gaume, and his wife, Kathryn, Barnegat, NJ and J.L. Gaume, Leavenworth, KS; two brothers, William D. Hayter, Columbia, MO and Robert D. Hayter, Lees Summit, MO; two sisters, Helen Curran, Richmond, MO and Genni Luikart, Lees Summit, MO; 10 grandchildren; and 11 great grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, October 15, 2008 in the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Hamilton, MO with Father Bob Kerr as celebrant.  Burial will follow in the Highland Cemetery, Hamilton.  The family of Mrs. Gaume will receive friends at the church for an hour preceding the service.

A Rosary will be recited at 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, October 14, 2008 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan with a family visitation to follow at 8:00 p.m.

Memorials contributions can be made to the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Hamilton, MO, the Manhattan Catholic Schools or the St. Isidore's Catholic Student Center and left in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Margaret Louise Petts Walls, 92, Manhattan, KS passed away Wednesday, October 8, 2008 in the Mercy Regional Health Center, Manhattan.

She was born July 12, 1916 at Alvin, WI, the daughter of Charles L. Haase and Olive Butler Haase.  She grew up Alvin and attended the local schools.

She was united in marriage to Warren L. Petts on August 25, 1934 at Iron River, MI.  He preceded her in death on September 7, 1950.  She was later married to Harley R. Walls on June 6, 1952 at Sweet Home, OR.  He preceded her in death on October 19, 1990.

Mrs. Walls spent many years in Oregon and moved to Manhattan in 1980 from Fremont, CA.  She was a homemaker and had worked as a nurse.  While living in California, she attended the Assembly of God Church as well as the Pentecostal Church.

In addition to her husbands, Mrs. Walls was preceded in death by two step-sons, Don Walls and Russell Walls; a step-daughter, Pearleen Walls Edge; her parents; and two brothers, Charles Haase and Lorenzo Haase.

Survivors include two sons, Marvin E. Petts and Garry L. Petts, and his wife, Sandy, all of Murphys, CA; a daughter, Maxine Petts Thowe, and her husband, Arthur, Manhattan; a step-son, Kenneth Walls, of Utah; a sister, Mariea Perkins, Canby, OR; 17 grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; and two great great grandchildren.

Cremation is planned.  Private family graveside services will be Monday, October 13, 2008 in the Sunrise Cemetery, Manhattan with the Rev. Kevin Larson officiating.

The Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan is in charge of arrangements.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.